By James Coleman

This is my second article about St. Augustine, a historic and tourist treasure in Florida. A few months ago, I wrote an article after my business trip to this charming city. I promised to write another post, and now I’m excited to take you even deeper into its rich history and share some truly fascinating facts that might surprise you.

Ever wondered what it would be like to walk through 450 years of history? Welcome to St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States!

Founded in 1565 by Spanish conquistador Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, this enchanting city has a rich heritage that has attracted millions. In fact, 6.3 million visitors flocked to St. Augustine in 2023 alone! Clearly, this historic gem is no secret, but I discovered some incredible facts that I can’t wait to share with you.

Where It All Began
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​Did you know that St. Augustine was the first place Europeans set foot in Florida?

While many believe Christopher Columbus discovered the New World, it was actually Juan Ponce de León, a Spanish explorer and the governor of Puerto Rico, who first explored the coasts of what is now Florida and named the region. In 1513, he likely ventured as far north as the area around present-day St. Augustine.

Though Leif Erikson may have reached Newfoundland in Canada around 1000 A.D., Ponce de León’s journey marked the first documented European exploration of Florida.

A Spanish Empire with Big Dreams
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​Now, let me tell you something that'll blow your mind!

The Spanish had grand ambitions for Florida. In the 16th century, their territorial claim extended across much of what we now call the southeastern United States, reaching as far north as parts of modern-day Canada. St. Augustine was at the center of it all, playing a crucial role in Spain’s vision for its North American empire.

​Imagine that—Florida stretching all the way to Canada! Cool, isn't it? I might be living in what was once Florida!

Layers of Influence

St. Augustine is more than just a Spanish settlement; it's a melting pot of influences. Over the centuries, the city has seen Spanish, British, and American rule, and its architecture reflects this rich cultural blend.

As you stroll through the streets of the old district, you’re not just visiting one era—you’re traveling through centuries of history, where each corner reveals a new layer of the past, each building has a story to tell, and each street a secret to share.

From its founding to today, St. Augustine remains a living history book. It’s a place where time travel feels possible.